Bootle will look for back to back wins for the first time since August when they travel to Stalybridge Celtic tomorrow.
The Bucks will look to build on their battling 2-1 victory over Atherton Collieries last Tuesday evening when they travel to Bower Field.
Stalybridge sit third in the Northern Premier League West Division after winning four of their last six games.
Alan Morgan’s visiting team sit ninth in the league, but the Bootle head coach knows that a win on Saturday could propel his side into the play-off positions.
An hour across the M62 separates the sides but only three points is the difference between their league positions.
Therefore a playoff six pointer could be played here, even if it is only November.
Ben Hodkinson’s penalty for the Bucks on Tuesday night not only saw his side get over the line at the Berry Street Garage but also saw him a goal closer to the Bucks’ all-time scorer Tom Peterson.
Hodkinson joined Bootle over eight years ago, signing from Skelmersdale United with brief spells at former non-league side Widnes FC and even a spell at National League North locals, Marine AFC.
Since his re-signing back in 2023, the 27-year-old has been a central figure in the dressing room and is the club’s top goal scorer this season.
He has netted eight goals, which places him second in the scoring chart across the division.
Stalybridge will prove to be tough opposition for Bootle as the home side come into the fixture having lost only one of their five matches at Bower Field.
However, the Bucks’ superb form away from home could prove vital.
Unbeaten in their previous five away games, Morgan’s side should be a group filled with confidence ahead of their 3 o’clock fixture.
The 51-year-old, following a first home victory since August earlier this week, said that if his midfield put in the same level of performance on Saturday, then his side would have a great chance to bring all three points back to Bootle.
Morgan said: “We know how good Lewis Earl is and it just depends on what Lewis Earl turns up but I’m very pleased with him tonight. Jack Lenehan was outstanding but Sam Hughes, I’m starting to sound like a broken record with him, every game he’s fantastic.’’
Morgan also felt that preparation was the vital factor if his side were to get over the line this Saturday.
@bootlefc Alan Morgan spoke on how Tuesday’s result has to be the blueprint for games to come this season 🔵🟡 #upthebucks #bootlefc #footballtiktok
